[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 19 (Monday, February 6, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E142]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING JOSH UNDERWOOD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ROBERT B. ADERHOLT

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 6, 2012

  Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor Mr. Josh 
Underwood, one of the twelve interns from the Uni-Capitol Washington 
Program, UCWIP who is currently interning in my office. The Uni-Capitol 
Washington Program has paired some of the brightest Australian students 
with various congressional offices for more than a decade and I am 
happy to have been a host.
  Josh comes from University of Queensland and is studying law and 
philosophy. Over the past month, I have found him to be outstanding in 
his duties and going above and beyond our expectations. When 
complimenting Josh to Mr. Federing, the director agreed saying ``Josh 
has been a standout among standouts in everything I've organized'' and 
I agree wholeheartedly. He has attended committee hearings, drafted 
constituent correspondence, and assisted me as well as my staff with 
research. His Australian accent has garnered the attention of many of 
my constituents on tours and over the phone. Josh's commitment, hard 
work, and presence have been an asset to the office and he will be 
sorely missed by all.
  The program has been in force for 13 years thanks to the vision of 
Eric Federing, its director and founder. The students who are selected 
come from a variety of academic disciplines, but all have a common 
interest: promoting the U.S.-Australia relationship. These student 
placements are enhanced by the formation of genuine friendships and the 
exchange of views and ideas between the Australian interns and their 
respective offices. We are grateful for these friendships and it is our 
hope that they strengthen the diplomatic ties of our great countries.
  I would thank Eric Federing for the opportunity to host Josh over the 
past several weeks. To date, 130 interns have come through his program 
representing 8 different universities over the programs lifetime. It 
enhances opportunities for the individuals who come and enlighten those 
who they come to. After the internship, many receive jobs on the Hill 
or go to work with Federal or various State Parliaments in Australia. 
Other interns have gone onto work in the Australian Embassy or The 
World Bank. Simply put, this program selects incredibly talented 
individuals that are a pleasure to host and work with. It was an honor 
to have Josh in our office and would wish him the very best, but I 
sincerely doubt he needs it. Josh, thank you again for your hard work 
and dedication.

                          ____________________